Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."



According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means that NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>.&nbsp;



NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies. This group includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.



“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.



"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-star-formation">More about star formation </h2>



Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.



The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. 



The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. 



Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a brilliant stellar nursery located about 163,000 light-years away.



According to ESA, the image is one of the most photogenic examples of the many stellar nurseries observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope during its 30-year lifetime. 



“The portrait features the giant nebula NGC 2014 and its neighbor NGC 2020 which together form part of a vast star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-stellar-nursery">What is a stellar nursery?</h2>



Stellar nurseries are regions in space where new stars are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">born</a> - often within vast clouds of gas and dust called molecular clouds.&nbsp;



These areas are fascinating because they are cradles of stellar evolution, where gravity causes clumps of gas to collapse, eventually forming protostars.&nbsp;



Over time, the protostars will heat up and start the nuclear fusion process that powers a star.



One of the most well-known stellar nurseries is the Orion Nebula, which is visible to the naked eye and located about 1,350 light-years from Earth.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-a-stellar-nursery-nbsp">Dynamic nature of a stellar nursery&nbsp;</h2>



Within these nurseries, the balance between gravity and pressure determines the types of stars that form, from massive, luminous stars to smaller, cooler ones like our Sun.&nbsp;



The environment is incredibly dynamic, with powerful winds from young stars shaping the clouds and triggering the birth of even more stars.



These regions are often illuminated by the light from massive newborn stars - creating stunning, colorful displays. The light reveals the intricate structure of the dust and gas, sculpted by the energy of young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-stellar-nurseries-nbsp">Significance of stellar nurseries&nbsp;</h2>



Stellar nurseries are essential for understanding the early stages of planetary formation, as protoplanetary disks (the material from which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets form</a>) are often found around young stars in these regions.



Stellar nurseries play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. They are responsible for the continuous birth of new stars that enrich the interstellar medium with heavier elements. This constant recycling of material is key to the development of future generations of stars and planets.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the study of these regions helps astronomers understand the fundamental processes that govern the life cycles of stars and the overall dynamics of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-local-group">The Local Group</h2>



The Local Group is a collection of over 80 galaxies that includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and the Triangulum Galaxy, along with numerous smaller dwarf galaxies. These galaxies are bound together by gravity and span a region roughly 10 million light-years across.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-thin-disk-is-billions-of-years-older-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> and Andromeda are the dominant members, with their respective satellite galaxies orbiting them.&nbsp;



The Local Group is part of a larger structure known as the Virgo Supercluster, and its galaxies are moving toward the gravitational center of the Local Group, contributing to its dynamic nature.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-magellanic-cloud">Large Magellanic Cloud</h2>



The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the fourth largest galaxy in the Local Group and can be seen with the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



This irregular dwarf galaxy is home to the Tarantula Nebula, one of the most active star-forming regions in our cosmic neighborhood.&nbsp;



The Large Magellanic Cloud played a key role in astronomical history, particularly when the supernova SN 1987A was observed, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution.&nbsp;



The LMC's interaction with the Milky Way, along with its own companion, the Small Magellanic Cloud, is believed to influence its shape and star formation activity. Its proximity and unique properties make it a crucial object of study for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>, star formation, and the dynamics of interacting galaxies.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a satellite view of the fires burning in Southern California.



“Five wildfires - the biggest of which are the Palisades and the Eaton fires - are still currently burning (as of January 10, 2025) in areas of north Los Angeles. At least 10 people are known to have lost their lives and many more properties have been burnt to the ground,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Los_Angeles_struggles_to_contain_wildfires" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“This image, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-3 mission on January 9, 2025, shows the Palisades fire at lower left and the Eaton fire at upper right, with smoke seen reaching Catalina Island and the Santa Barbara reserve to the south of the fire.”&nbsp;



The fires have now burned more than 37,000 acres - an area bigger than San Francisco - according to Cal Fire. More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tens-of-thousands-of-residents-displaced-by-fires">Tens of thousands of residents displaced by fires</h2>



The Palisades Fire is the largest at more than 21,000 acres, while the Eaton Fire has burned more than 14,000 acres. Those blazes are 11 percent and 15 percent contained, respectively.



Evacuation orders have displaced over 150,000 residents, with an additional 166,000 on alert. Temporary shelters are operating at full capacity, and widespread power outages have affected nearly 1.6 million homes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-winds-and-a-lack-of-resources-nbsp">Strong winds and a lack of resources&nbsp;</h2>



Firefighting efforts are being hampered by strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-more-toxic-than-other-sources-of-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winds</a>, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour, and a lack of resources. Some fire hydrants have run dry, complicating containment efforts.&nbsp;



In response to the crisis, President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance, and additional firefighters from neighboring states are joining the efforts.&nbsp;



The California National Guard has been deployed, and the Department of Defense is providing personnel and equipment. Despite these measures, the fires continue to pose a significant threat to the region.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-threats-from-the-palisades-fire-nbsp">New threats from the Palisades Fire&nbsp;</h2>



The Palisades Fire, which began near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles, has rapidly expanded, prompting new evacuation orders for areas including Tarzana and Encino in the San Fernando Valley.&nbsp;



The fire's swift progression has been exacerbated by strong winds, causing it to grow by "three football fields of land per minute." This rapid expansion has led to mandatory evacuations along sections of the Pacific Coast Highway and surrounding areas.&nbsp;



The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that more than 10,000 houses and 13,000 buildings are under threat.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-fires">Unpredictable behavior of the fires</h2>



In response to the advancing flames, evacuation orders were extended into Tarzana and Encino on January 10. Residents in these areas have been advised to evacuate promptly due to the fire's unpredictable behavior and the potential for further spread.&nbsp;



The situation remains critical, with firefighting efforts ongoing to contain the blaze and protect threatened communities.&nbsp;



Authorities continue to monitor the fire's progression and are urging residents to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders for their safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-in-southern-california-nbsp">Wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dry-lightning-sparks-the-most-destructive-california-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildfires</a> in Southern California are particularly severe due to a combination of factors. The region’s hot, dry climate creates ideal conditions for fires, especially during the summer and fall when vegetation is parched.&nbsp;



Seasonal Santa Ana winds exacerbate the problem by driving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flames</a> rapidly across the landscape, making fires difficult to contain. The area’s diverse and often dense vegetation, such as chaparral and grasslands, provides abundant fuel.&nbsp;



Furthermore, Southern California’s growing urban footprint increases the risk of fires igniting due to human activity, while also placing more people and infrastructure in harm’s way.&nbsp;



Climate change intensifies these challenges by extending fire seasons and increasing the frequency of extreme heat and drought events, creating a feedback loop that makes wildfires increasingly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-forests-are-losing-their-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">destructive</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-california-fires">Impacts of the California fires</h2>



The Palisades and Eaton Fires are among the most destructive wildfires in California's history, both in terms of structures destroyed and economic impact. Fortunately, however, they have not surpassed the Camp Fire in terms of human fatalities.



The Camp Fire of 2018 remains the deadliest wildfire in the state of California, with 85 fatalities. 



The financial impact of the current fires is unprecedented. Estimates suggest that the damages could reach between $135 billion and $150 billion, potentially making these wildfires the costliest in U.S. history.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Satellite captures devastating fires in Southern California

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of Mount Nemrut, a volcano located in eastern Turkey near Lake Van.



Mount Nemrut is notable for its immense caldera, which was formed through a series of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a>. The caldera, one of the largest in the world, now contains several lakes such as Lake Nemrut.&nbsp;



"The eastern half of the caldera is partially filled by solidified lava flows from past eruptions. Snow cover present at the time of this photo accentuates pressure ridges that formed as the lava was flowing and cooling," noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"These pressure ridges vary in size, thickness, and orientation due to the varying viscosity and flow direction of the lavas during eruptions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-lake-nemrut">Formation of Lake Nemrut</h2>



"Lake Nemrut (Nemrut Gölü) occupies the western half of the caldera, creating a rough crescent shape that partially submerges the old lava flows," said NASA.



"This freshwater lake, reaching up to 176 meters deep, is accompanied by a smaller lake at the upper-center of the caldera."



The lake was formed after the collapse of the Nemrut volcano's summit. This collapse created a massive crater, which gradually filled with water over time, forming the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unesco-world-heritage-site">UNESCO World Heritage Site </h2>



Mount Nemrut and its surroundings are part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their ecological and geological significance.



The site is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species that use the lake as a stopover during migration. The caldera also contains smaller lakes and wetlands, adding to the area's biodiversity.



Lake Nemrut is a popular destination for tourists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.



Despite its popularity, the lake remains relatively remote and unspoiled, contributing to its appeal as a natural wonder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-nemrut-has-shaped-the-landscape">Mount Nemrut has shaped the landscape</h2>



Geologically, Mount Nemrut is interesting because its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a> have played a key role in shaping the local landscape. 



Its last major eruption occurred around 1441 AD, which indicates that it's not currently active but is considered dormant.



The area around Nemrut is known for its geothermal activity, including hot springs and fumaroles, suggesting that there is still significant heat beneath the surface.



Over thousands of years, various civilizations have inhabited the region around Nemrut, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-a-king">Tribute to a king</h2>



The summit of Mount Nemrut is dominated by a vast funerary mound constructed by King Antiochus I Theos, who ruled the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st century BCE. 



The site was intended to serve as his tomb sanctuary and a place to commemorate the king's vision of divine kingship and unity between Eastern and Western cultures.



The mound, made of loose crushed stones, measures about 50 meters (164 feet) in height and spans a diameter of 150 meters (492 feet), creating an imposing feature visible from afar.



Surrounding the mound are terraces on the eastern, western, and northern sides, each adorned with colossal statues and reliefs. The statues, ranging in height from 8 to 10 meters (26 to 33 feet), represent various deities, including Zeus, Apollo, Hercules, and the goddess Tyche, alongside King Antiochus himself. 



The heads of the statues, many of which have toppled over due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> and erosion, lie scattered around the site, creating an iconic and enigmatic scene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiritual-and-religious-practices">Spiritual and religious practices</h2>



In addition to the statues, inscriptions at Mount Nemrut provide valuable historical information about the kingdom, the king's lineage, and the religious practices of the time.



The site is not only a marvel of ancient engineering but also a spiritual and astronomical center. Scholars believe the terraces were aligned with celestial events, serving as an observatory for solstices and equinoxes.



In addition to its natural and historical significance, the Nemrut volcano has been the subject of scientific study, as researchers aim to understand more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in the region, the history of its eruptions, and the potential risks it may pose in the future.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Mount Nemrut: Ancient mysteries and natural marvels 

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy I Zwicky 18, which was captured in remarkable detail by the James Webb Space Telescope.



I Zwicky 18 is a blue compact dwarf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> located approximately 59 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-i-zwicky-18">Star formation in I Zwicky 18</h2>



The galaxy is notable for its relatively young appearance and the fact that it contains very few heavy elements. These characteristics indicate that it has experienced little <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> compared to other galaxies of similar age.



“The galaxy was first identified by Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky in the 1930’s and resides roughly 59 million light-years from Earth,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. “This galaxy has gone through several sudden bursts of star formation.”&nbsp;



According to ESA, I Zwicky 18 is typical of the kinds of galaxies that inhabited the early universe and is much smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-star-j1249-36-spotted-trying-to-escape-our-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-telescope-image-of-the-galaxy">Webb telescope image of the galaxy</h2>



“Two major starburst regions are embedded in the heart of the galaxy. The wispy brown filaments surrounding the central starburst region are bubbles of gas that have been heated by stellar winds and intense ultraviolet radiation unleashed by hot, young stars,” said ESA.



“A companion galaxy resides nearby to the dwarf galaxy, which can be seen at the bottom of the wider-field image. The companion may be interacting with the dwarf galaxy and may have triggered that galaxy's recent star formation.”&nbsp;



ESA explained that the “orange blobs” surrounding the galaxy are the dim glow from ancient fully formed galaxies at much larger distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-i-zwicky-18">Key characteristics of I Zwicky 18</h2>



As previously mentioned, the galaxy has a very low abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, suggesting that it has not undergone significant stellar processing.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-stellar-population-nbsp">Young stellar population&nbsp;</h3>



Despite its old age, I Zwicky 18 contains many young, hot stars. This suggests that it might have experienced a burst of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-detects-awe-inspiring-newborn-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> relatively recently in its history.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-medium-nbsp">Interstellar medium&nbsp;</h3>



The galaxy has a high density of gas, which is a prime ingredient for star formation. This gas is mostly in the form of hydrogen.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-characteristics">Unusual characteristics</h3>



Its characteristics are more typical of primordial galaxies found in the early universe, making it a valuable object of study for understanding galaxy formation and evolution.



Ultimately, I Zwicky 18 provides insights into the conditions and processes that might have been prevalent in the early universe.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycles-of-stars-and-dust">Life cycles of stars and dust</h3>



The image was captured as part of a Webb program to study the life cycle of dust in I Zw 18.&nbsp;



“Scientists are now building off of previous research with Hubble obtained at optical wavelengths, studying individual dusty stars in detail with Webb’s equivalent spatial resolution and sensitivity at infrared wavelengths.”&nbsp;



ESA noted that this galaxy is of particular interest as its content of elements heavier than helium is one of the lowest of all known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-galaxy-formation-occurred-much-faster-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> in the local universe.&nbsp;



“Such conditions are thought to be similar to those in some of the first star-forming galaxies at high redshift, so the Webb study of I Zw 18 should shed light on the life-cycle of stars and dust in the early universe.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-ursa-major">The constellation Ursa Major </h2>



Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most prominent and easily recognizable constellations in the northern sky. 



Its name, "Ursa Major," means "Great Bear" in Latin, and it has been a significant part of various mythologies and star lore across cultures for thousands of years. 



One of the most famous asterisms within Ursa Major is the Big Dipper, a group of seven bright stars that form a shape resembling a ladle or dipper. The Big Dipper is often used as a navigation tool because it points to Polaris, the North Star, located in the nearby constellation Ursa Minor.



Ursa Major is best viewed in the northern hemisphere and is circumpolar, meaning it is visible year-round for much of the Northern Hemisphere. Its position changes with the seasons, rotating around Polaris, the North Star.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

Archaeologists have uncovered what may be the oldest tools ever used on Earth, and they weren't created by direct human ancestors. 



These ancient artifacts, found in Kenya’s Homa Peninsula - which is dubbed "the cradle of humankind" - date back three million years. 



The tools, consisting of sharpened stone flakes, are believed to have been made by early hominins named Paranthropus, who are considered to be the first pre-human species to walk upright.



This region where these tools were found has long been a treasure trove for discoveries about humanity's beginnings.



It’s where researchers found "Lucy," the fossil of a female <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lucy-could-barely-run-what-does-that-say-about-our-ancestors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australopithecus afarensis</a>, which was a pre-human species that lived over three million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-tools-reveal-human-survival">First tools reveal human survival</h2>



The sharpened stones, part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-made-the-earliest-stone-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oldowan toolkit</a>, were used by early humans to peel and cut fruits, slice vegetables, and butcher animals.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cuny.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">City University of New York</a> confirmed that these tools represent a technological breakthrough that enabled hominins to access new food sources, thus fueling both physical and cognitive evolution.



Lead archaeologist Tom Plummer called the Oldowan toolkit a turning point. 



“In terms of technology, I think the Oldowan technology is the most important technological innovation that ever happened in human history,” he said. 



This innovation paved the way for the development of more complex tools and behaviors, and ultimately shaped the course of human evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-ancestors-didn-t-invent-tools">Human ancestors didn't invent tools</h2>



Plummer told <a href="https://youtu.be/P9Zc2noSsWw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBS News</a> that alongside these tools they also discovered a tooth fossil from an early hominin called Paranthropus - an early hominin that is not a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.



This suggests that advanced tool-making was not a technology created by human ancestors, but one that was copied, then used to dominate early hominins, essentially wiping them off the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-paranthropus-the-basics">Understanding Paranthropus -- the basics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-species-of-human-ancestors-literally-crossed-paths-1-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paranthropus</a> is an intriguing group of early human relatives that roamed Africa between about 2.7 and 1.2 million years ago. 



These ancient hominins stood out because of their strong, robust features, including large jaws and hefty molar teeth designed for crunching tough, fibrous plants. 



Unlike modern humans, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paranthropus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paranthropus</a> had relatively small brains, but their skulls were built to handle the heavy chewing required by their diet. 



Scientists have identified several species within this group, such as Paranthropus boisei and Paranthropus robustus, each showcasing unique adaptations that highlight the diversity of our evolutionary family.



Researchers believe that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-was-shaped-by-competition-not-just-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paranthropus</a> lived alongside other early human species, like Homo habilis, occupying a different ecological niche thanks to their specialized eating habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dietary-evolution-began-3-million-years-ago">Dietary evolution began 3 million years ago</h2>



Researchers uncovered ancient hippo bones near the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/400000-year-old-stone-tools-show-technological-adaptations-of-prehistoric-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>, and noted that the bones had distinct cut marks.



These marks confirm that early hominins used their tools for butchery, demonstrating that they could cut and process meat. 



This ability gave them access to a critical food source that enabled them to expand their diet and improve their chances of survival.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_discovery-analysis_Credit-Science_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_discovery-analysis_Credit-Science_1s.webp" alt="(A) Photos of a dorsal flake, ventral flake, and core from Nyayanga next to a principal component analysis based on major technological attributes of Early Stone Age artifact assemblages and a capuchin-derived assemblage. Assemblages are plotted according to principal component 1 (x axis) and principal component 2 (y axis). The Nyayanga assemblage (NYA) falls within the shaded ellipse that represents the 95% confidence interval for Oldowan sites. A scree plot with eigenvalue percentage of variance for principal components 1 through 11, and a loadings plot showing the contribution of each variable are shown to the right. (B) The frequency of cores in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) and photos of two Nyayanga cores (bottom). (C) The frequency of artifacts with percussion damage in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) with photos of a Nyayanga pounded piece. Credit: Science" class="wp-image-1956476"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(A) Photos of a dorsal flake, ventral flake, and core from Nyayanga next to a principal component analysis based on major technological attributes of Early Stone Age artifact assemblages and a capuchin-derived assemblage. Assemblages are plotted according to principal component 1 (x axis) and principal component 2 (y axis). The Nyayanga assemblage (NYA) falls within the shaded ellipse that represents the 95% confidence interval for Oldowan sites. A scree plot with eigenvalue percentage of variance for principal components 1 through 11, and a loadings plot showing the contribution of each variable are shown to the right. (B) The frequency of cores in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) and photos of two Nyayanga cores (bottom). (C) The frequency of artifacts with percussion damage in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) with photos of a Nyayanga pounded piece. Credit: Science</figcaption></figure>



Rick Potts, director of the Smithsonian's human origins program, highlighted the significance of this discovery. 



He noted that such evidence sheds light on the transformative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/476000-year-old-ancient-woodworking-discovery-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journey of human survival</a>, showing how early innovations like tool use played a crucial role in adapting to a challenging environment.



Potts also reflected on how this emphasizes the delicate balance of life and the adaptability required throughout human history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-and-death-of-early-humans">Life and death of early humans</h2>



The famous fossilized skeleton of Lucy was discovered in 1974. She lived over three million years ago and her fossilized remains have provided key insights into early human evolution.



Recent research revealed that Lucy likely died from injuries sustained in a fall from a tree - a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by early hominins as they navigated both arboreal and terrestrial environments.



Anthropologist <a href="https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/anthropology/faculty/jwk5664" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Kappelman</a>, who studied Lucy’s remains, noted her extensive injuries. 



“It is ironic that the fossil at the center of a debate about the role of arborealism in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human evolution</a> likely died from injuries suffered from a fall out of a tree,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-innovation-began-6-million-years-ago">Human innovation began 6 million years ago</h2>



The discovery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_Paranthropus-tooth_CBS-news_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient tools</a> and fossils in Kenya’s Homa Peninsula has reshaped our understanding of human evolution.



While modern humans (Homo sapiens) emerged about 300,000 years ago, the roots of innovation extend far further back in time, according to Rick Potts, a leading expert. 



These findings suggest that key behaviors, like tool-making, didn’t happen quickly but evolved gradually over a very long period of six million years.



This challenges earlier views that technological and cognitive milestones occurred in a shorter timeframe. Instead, it reveals that early hominins developed critical skills much earlier, and this laid the foundation for later advances.



Potts emphasized how this extended timeline helps us appreciate the complexity and depth of our evolutionary journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-early-tools-shaped-human-evolution">How early tools shaped human evolution</h2>



The discoveries in Kenya highlight how early technological innovations by hominins were pivotal in shaping humanity's evolutionary path. 



The Oldowan tools, that date back three million years, represent one of the earliest examples of humans using technology to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-ancestors-woodworking-sophisticated-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solve problems</a>.



These tools allowed early humans to process food, such as cutting meat and peeling fruits, which significantly expanded their diet and improved their ability to survive in challenging environments.



Tom Plummer emphasized the far-reaching impact of these innovations, and described the Oldowan tools as a cornerstone of human progress. 



These tools not only helped early hominins adapt to their environment but also set the stage for further advances in technology and survival strategies.



These findings remind us of the resilience and ingenuity of our ancestors, traits that have defined human history. The ability to innovate and adapt has always been central to our survival and continues to shape the future of humanity.



The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abo7452" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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These might be the first tools ever used on Earth, and early humans didn't make them

Archaeologists have uncovered what may be the oldest tools ever...

In a significant breakthrough, researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered where an essential photoreceptor, cryptochrome-1 (CRY1), operates within plant seedling stems.



This finding could have profound implications for improving crop resilience and yield, especially for vital crops like soybeans.



The discovery sheds new light on how plant seedlings interact with their environment, detect sunlight, and decide their growth strategies. 



For farmers and researchers alike, understanding these processes during the vulnerable early stages of a plant's life could be key to promoting stronger, healthier crops.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-photoreceptors-influence-plant-seedlings">How photoreceptors influence plant seedlings</h2>



Photoreceptors are proteins that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-soil-day-2024-protecting-our-planets-lifeline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> use to sense light and make growth-related decisions. They play a pivotal role in determining when a seedling should stop elongating, begin photosynthesis, and channel energy into survival and development. 



Until now, scientists understood these broad functions but lacked clarity about where in the seedling the photoreceptors acted.



“For the first time, we realized that the effect of these photoreceptors is not everywhere along the stem and that different photoreceptors control different regions of the stem,” explained Edgar Spalding, professor emeritus of botany at <a href="https://www.wisc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UW–Madison</a>.



To unravel this mystery, Spalding, doctoral student Julian Bustamante, and data scientist Nathan Miller used a combination of techniques including genetic manipulation, high-resolution imaging, and machine learning.



The team photographed the growth of tiny seedlings with highly sensitive cameras and analyzed the data using UW–Madison’s advanced computing resources. This approach allowed them to pinpoint how specific photoreceptors influence distinct parts of the plant stem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-detection-and-plant-survival">Light detection and plant survival</h2>



One of the most fascinating discoveries from this research is the critical role of the photoreceptor CRY1 in helping seedlings survive environmental challenges.



When a seedling first emerges from the soil, it uses stored energy to elongate its stem and reach sunlight, where it can begin photosynthesis. 



However, sometimes seedlings are covered again by soil due to wind, animals, or other environmental factors. Without sunlight, they can no longer produce energy through photosynthesis.



CRY1 acts as a kind of survival mechanism. Initially, it prevents the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/booster-plant-gene-discovery-amplifies-plant-growth-up-to-200-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> from overextending its stem, conserving energy and leaving some growth potential in reserve. If the seedling gets buried again, CRY1 signals the plant to elongate further until it breaks through the soil and reaches sunlight once more.



This discovery is particularly significant for "stand establishment" - the phase when seedlings take root and begin to grow. Stand establishment is a critical determinant of crop success, and understanding how CRY1 functions during this period could help farmers enhance the resilience of their plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crops-of-the-future">Crops of the future</h2>



The implications of this research extend beyond academic curiosity. By genetically enhancing the role of CRY1 in seeds, researchers could develop crops better equipped to handle environmental setbacks.



This innovation could prove invaluable for farmers, particularly in regions where soil conditions or weather events make early seedling survival more challenging.



“By isolating the effects of specific photoreceptors like CRY1, we’re able to focus on ways to create <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-how-climate-change-will-alter-plant-growth-cycles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> that are more adaptable to their environment,” noted Spalding.



“This research not only improves our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-soil-esoil-boosts-crop-production-by-50-in-just-15-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> biology but also opens the door to practical applications that could benefit agriculture worldwide.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-efficient-and-resilient-farming-methods">Efficient and resilient farming methods</h2>



As the world’s population grows, the need for more efficient and resilient farming methods becomes critical. This study on plants photoreceptors and their influence on seedling growth offers insights that could transform agriculture by enabling the creation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-sophisticated-strategies-to-balance-defense-and-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a> better suited to handle environmental challenges.



By enhancing photoreceptor functions, particularly CRY1, scientists could engineer seeds that help plants recover from obstacles like being buried under soil. This innovation has the potential to increase yields, reduce crop losses, and provide a stable food supply, benefiting both farmers and consumers.



The research demonstrates the power of combining advanced genetic editing, machine learning, and traditional plant biology. It showcases how understanding plant-environment interactions can help develop crops that not only survive but thrive under adverse conditions.



The findings could pave the way for a future where agriculture is more sustainable, adaptable, and capable of meeting global food demands.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)01562-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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New understanding of light detection in plants may revolutionize farming

In a significant breakthrough, researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison...

It’s not every day that humble microbial cells make a splash, but recent research indicates that these tiny life forms have an unexpected capacity to exchange electrical signals and coordinate motions.



They might look simple on the outside, yet new findings suggest their internal teamwork is more complex than we once thought.&nbsp;



The research reveals that colonies of a single-celled organism called Salpingoeca rosetta actively synchronize their shape and movement through voltage-gated calcium signals.&nbsp;



This activity appears to happen at the edge of multicellularity, offering curious hints about how animals may have gained their early nerve and muscle systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signaling-in-microbial-cell-colonies">Signaling in microbial cell colonies</h2>



Biologists have known for years that these marine microorganisms can form small, ball-shaped clusters, yet only now are researchers uncovering the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-cells-communicate-with-each-other-through-rna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication channels</a> they use to coordinate their shape changes.&nbsp;



The study at the center of this buzz was spearheaded by first author <a href="https://www4.uib.no/en/find-employees/Jeffrey.John.Colgren" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jeffrey Colgren</a> and last author Pawel Burkhardt, from the Burkhardt group at the <a href="https://www.uib.no/en/michaelsarscentre/117326/publications-burkhardt-group" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Sars Centre</a>, <a href="https://www.uib.no/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bergen</a>.&nbsp;



They found that, when these microbes link up into rosette-shaped colonies, they pull off synchronized stunts involving cell contraction and simultaneous flagellar "<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3042756/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pauses</a>."



The group observed that these moves can be switched on and off by altering the levels of calcium outside the cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origin-of-multicellularity-in-microbes">Origin of multicellularity in microbes</h2>



“We found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-cells-message-each-other-using-rna-and-escort-proteins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a> among the cells of the colonies, which regulates shape and ciliary beating across the rosette,” explained Colgren.



He observed that each individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell</a> within the cluster uses its own voltage-gated calcium channels. That same type of channel is present in the muscles and nerves of animals.&nbsp;



At a glance, it might sound fancy for a microbe, but it highlights the possibility that simpler creatures already had the building blocks for complex body structures. 



The ability to start or stop movement on a dime allows each cell to respond to environmental changes with surprising speed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parallels-in-microbial-cell-signaling">Parallels in microbial cell signaling</h2>



One intriguing parallel can be seen in certain sponges that also rely on active tissues to draw water through their bodies, even though they are <a href="https://academic.oup.com/icb/article-abstract/5/3/439/128677?redirectedFrom=fulltext&amp;login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">without nerves or muscles</a>.



A sponge can briefly halt the beating of its <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6481868/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collar cells</a> after sensing undesirable particles in the water. S. rosetta, for its part, demonstrates a small-scale version of this process by using coordinated pulses of calcium to stop ciliary beating.&nbsp;



Observers notice that this phenomenon can happen in unison across the entire colony, which is quite a feat for an organism that doesn’t even crack the millimeter mark.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multicellularity-in-action">Multicellularity in action</h2>



“<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35337467/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">S. rosetta</a> is a powerful model for investigating the emergence of multicellularity,” says <a href="https://www4.uib.no/en/find-employees/Pawel.Burkhardt">Burkhardt</a>. The dividing line between single-celled and multicellular life can be fuzzy, and organisms like S. rosetta flip back and forth between being solitary and grouping up.&nbsp;



The fact that these microbes can share signals within a colony suggests that they possess at least some basic wiring for collaboration. That coordination might be especially useful in crowded or changing conditions.&nbsp;



Scientists suspect that if cells can pass electrical messages around the circle, then the whole cluster acts as a better-fed, more unified version of itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-for-early-nervous-systems">Importance for early nervous systems</h2>



“This evidence of how information flows between cells in choanoflagellate colonies demonstrates cell-cell signaling at the cusp of multicellularity,” stressed Colgren.



The big takeaway is that a group of cells - still lacking real nerve fibers - can synchronize movements using communication patterns similar to those used in animal neurons.&nbsp;



This discovery runs alongside the idea that ancient organisms may have started with basic electrical networks, eventually paving the way for today’s complex brains. 



It also raises the question whether other, simple life forms also have hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cell-nuclei-play-unexpected-role-in-organ-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication systems</a> that have not yet been detected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeding-and-coordination">Feeding and coordination</h2>



By forming a rosette, these cells place their feeding structures on the outside surface.



This arrangement can help them capture bacterial prey with extra efficiency, especially if every cell coordinates its efforts. Prior <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15363407/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyses</a> hint that improved feeding was a key perk of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18983257/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early multicellularity</a>.&nbsp;



Researchers saw that when S. rosetta’s <a href="https://ciliopathyalliance.org/cilia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cilia</a> pause, food particles sometimes get jostled loose, suggesting that minor “resets” keep the filter mechanism going at its best. 



Colonies might even share information about local bacterial levels, so everyone benefits from the best mealtime strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-microbial-cell-signaling-research">Future of microbial cell signaling research</h2>



“The tools developed and findings from this study open up a lot of new and interesting questions,” stated <a href="https://www4.uib.no/en/find-employees/Jeffrey.John.Colgren" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colgren</a>. There is now an eagerness to investigate how, exactly, the signals hop from one cell to the next.&nbsp;



A line of inquiry also involves whether these mini-contractions might influence swimming direction, colony spacing, or survival in shifting environments. 



The researchers aim to see if other <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/choanoflagellate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">choanoflagellate</a> species carry the same equipment or use different methods for cellular harmony. 



As the team refines their imaging and genetic approaches, the hope is that future experiments will keep revealing bigger clues about the earliest sparks of nerve and muscle function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glancing-back-looking-ahead">Glancing back, looking ahead</h2>



The excitement around these discoveries reflects how little we know about the fine details of life’s transition from single celled organisms to multicellular animals and plants. 



What looks basic or primitive can teach us a lot about how real bodies coordinate movement, sense surroundings, and evolve new types of organization. 



Tiny though they may be, these rosette-forming microbes remind us that even the smallest corners of biology hold plenty of intrigue for those willing to take a closer peek.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr7434" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Microbial cells have a fascinating and unexpected communication system

It’s not every day that humble microbial cells make a...

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Today’s Video of the Day comes from <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/sciencecasts/cool-science-on-the-international-space-station">Science@NASA</a> and features a look at a new atomic refrigerator called the Cold Atom Lab (CAL) that will be added to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/life-international-space-station/">International Space Station</a> later this year.
The chamber will be colder than the vacuum of space, capable of refrigerating matter to one ten billionth of a degree above absolute zero. At this temperature, atoms slow down their movement dramatically, opening up a new area of study for a variety of topics.
&#8212;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Video Credit: <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/sciencecasts/cool-science-on-the-international-space-station">Science@NASA</a>

New space chamber can cool atoms to one ten billionth of a degree